Happy 4th of July!

Bald Eagle chicks in northeastern Connecticut.

This July 4th might not quite yet mark a total independence day from COVID, but the pandemic is definitely receding into the background. Willimantic's boom-box parade made a comeback, but was shorter and more subdued than usual, either because of the weather (coolish with occasional drizzle), or lingering coronavirus concerns. 

One of the known area Bald Eagle nests is home to two young eagles this year, which seemed to be just about ready to fledge when I saw them last weekend. They were hopping around in the branches above the nest, and flapping their wings, but not flying. 

Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) in Bigelow Hollow State Park, Union, Ct.

 This year was a banner year for the Connecticut state flower, Mountain Laurel, with some of the most profuse flowering that I have seen. The peak was probably in mid-June, but the laurels looked fantastic for several weeks, and there are still a few flowers hanging on in cooler spots. Last year there were barely any flowers at all, but for 2021, the laurel thickets have really put on a show.